Medical simulation is an important tool in today's competitive medical devices marketplace.

Simulators can be used to:

model a prospective device before it is built

help refine the design of prototypes

provide training in the use of a device or procedure; and

support or augment a device used for rehabilitation following accident or injury.

If a simulator is to be effective it must accurately model the system it emulates and provide a convincing user experience. This can make severe demands on system hardware and software.

The Medical Simulation & Modelling group draw on expertise from a wide range of disciplines to develop simulation solutions that are practical and realistic.

The group comprises researchers and practitioners from computer science, electronics, mechanical engineering, clinical specialties and medical training, and it has been successful in developing both physical and virtual simulators for high-risk, unusual, or difficult procedures that medical practitioners rarely experience in training.

We have particular expertise in building simulators that combine technologies from the fields of:

Virtual Reality

Augmented Reality

3D Visualisation

Haptics

GPU-boosted Physical Simulation

Our research provides a lifelike environment that allows the user to interact with and "feel" simulated objects.

These technologies can be used in the development of customised simulation products for new procedures or new products entering the market. We work closely with the Clinical Skills & Simulation Unit at Flinders Medical Centre, Flinders Ambulance Education Centre, and external organisations.

Current and past research projects include:

Epidural simulator - a device that allows trainee anaesthetists to practice administering spinal injections with a high degree of realism and without risk to patients

Post-Graduate Students

We actively supervise and support many student projects at both Honours and Post-graduate levels and invite students who are interested in pursuing research in this program to contact us for further information.